The deep sensory hugs are a recognized treatment for sensory overload. There is even a device that a person can crawl into that simulates hanging in a snug blanket, created by Temple Grandin after watching cows calm down when tightly penned. a soothing voice is also helpful to us all.

Another idea for transitions is using a digital camera to take pictures of who or what is next. The pictures can be sequentially ordered as activies will occur. Could even make a game or give choice of which goes first.